What does cruise security check?

Asked by: Leanne Brekke V  |  Last update: May 16, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (17 votes)

When you arrive at the Port Authority Security in the cruise terminal, you will pass a security checkpoint where all carry-on luggage goes through X-rays and other baggage is checked in. All checked bags on cruise ships are scanned.

What do they check when you go on a cruise?

The id is scanned and a ship security officer will see on a computer screen you name and your picture on file to confirm your identity. All of this also applies to crew members or staff that goes to shore. Checked baggage is also inspected with x-rays at the embarkation port.

Do cruise ships check your carry-on?

If you're planning to go on a cruise, you might be wondering whether cruise lines check your luggage. The answer is yes, they do.

What do cruise scanners detect?

What Do Cruise Scanners Detect? Cruise scanners reveal the contents of your luggage through X-rays, allowing security to identify any items, including those “camouflaged” as something else. They have trained staff that meticulously review the scans, making it really challenging to sneak prohibited items onboard.

What does security look like on a cruise?

Upon entering the terminal, you'll need to show your cruise documents and go through a security line. You will need to pass through an x-ray machine and have your carry-ons scanned, but the process is not as rigorous as at the airport. (You likely won't need to remove your shoes, for example.)

9 Rookie Mistakes That Could Get You STUCK at Cruise Security

29 related questions found

Are vapes allowed on cruises?

Yes, most major cruise providers will allow standard e-cigarettes and e-liquids to be taken on board their ships. Larger batteries and vape kits may be refused however due to a potential fire risk, so sticking to smaller disposable or pod vapes is a safer bet when traveling on a cruise.

Do they search your bags on a cruise?

Just like the security screening at an airport, we also screen all luggage our guests bring onboard to ensure everyone's safety. If there is an item in your luggage that is prohibited or is believed to be prohibited, your bag will be taken to a screening location and will be inspected by our Security Team onboard.

Is cruise security like TSA?

Similar to the airport, you and your carry-ons (and your luggage) will be scanned and have to go through a security checkpoint, but the process isn't as rigorous. Further inspection usually isn't required unless security finds something that is prohibited.

Is it better to board early or late on a cruise?

The best time to board a cruise ship is obviously when there are few lines and short waits. The trick is knowing when that will be. Unfortunately, it can vary from port to port and ship to ship, but I prefer arriving in the early afternoon, usually around 1 or 2 p.m.

Do TSA rules apply to cruises?

Luggage may be locked only with a TSA approved lock. Any carry-on luggage must be able to fit through the x-ray screening machines. These machines vary in size from port to port, however generally they are similar to those found at airport security check points.

Do cruise ships check your bags for alcohol?

As we already mentioned, cruise lines are wise to the tricks of passengers trying to sneak alcohol (and most prohibited items) on board. Futhermore, you will be screened at your port of embarkation, including airport-style X-ray searches of your bags.

Can you bring CBD gummies on a cruise ship?

The consensus among popular Miami-based cruise lines, as well as with Disney Cruise Lines, is no, you cannot take CBD oil and products or marijuana, including medical marijuana, on your cruise. It's prohibited.

What drugs can dogs not smell?

Opiates. Like opioids, the term "opiates" refers to a class of drugs. These drugs are similar because they come from opiates. One of the most common opiates is morphine, a drug that is legal when prescribed, meaning that police dogs cannot learn to detect it.

Are drugs allowed on cruises?

Carnival recognizes that some states in the U.S. have legalized the use of recreational and/or medical marijuana. However, cruise lines are required to follow U.S. federal law, which strictly prohibits possession and use of marijuana and other illegal substances.

Do cruise ships do security checks?

Passengers must pass through an airport-style detector and they will have a digital photo taken. Most cruise lines employ former police or military personnel to process boarding checks, and scent dogs may be present to check for drugs, which are among many items prohibited on board.

Do cruise ships xray luggage?

They do indeed do an xray. Note that the security procedures are less strict than for airlines though.

What is not allowed in luggage on a cruise?

Banned Items on Cruise Ships: List
  • Alcohol. ...
  • Illegal Drugs. ...
  • CBD. ...
  • Weapons, Ammunition & Imitation Weapons. ...
  • Knives, or Scissors with blades longer than 4inches. ...
  • Irons & Steamers. ...
  • Extension Leads. ...
  • Coffee Maker, Kettles, and Hot Plates.

How to pack your vape for a cruise?

Just throw it in your bag with your toiletries. Put the vape in with your toothbrush, comb, razor, etc. Don't forget to pack the charger!

Can you vape on your balcony on a cruise?

You also can't smoke or vape in your stateroom or balcony, with a $250 fine per violation of this rule. This fine will be charged to your stateroom account. Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated the same as cigarettes with Princess Cruises.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise?

Everyone will need to present an accepted form of identification to board the ship. We strongly recommend that all guests present a passport as their form of ID on boarding day, and for some guests a passport is required. The passport must be valid for six months after the day your cruise ends.

Do drugs show up on a body scanner?

Do airport body scanners pick up drugs? Given that body scanners don't see under the skin, Malvini Redden says body scanners would also not pick up anything else stashed inside a body cavity, such as drugs or hazardous liquids. These items might be detected, however, if they were in your pockets.

Do cruise ships have jails on board?

What Is a Cruise Ship Jail? Most cruise ships have a facility known as a “brig” or “holding cell.” These are small, secure rooms designed to detain passengers or crew members who pose a threat to themselves or others.

Are there police on cruise ships?

There are no police on a cruise ship. Everyone from passenger to crew is subject to the control of the master or captain who answers only to the cruise line. The cruise line industry has orchestrated a public campaign to mislead the vacationing public here and abroad about the risk of crime and dangers at sea.